Arytenoidectomy for the Treatment of Bilateral Vocal Folds Immobility

Abstract

Arytenoidectomy, or the partial removal of the arytenoid cartilage, is a surgical procedure performed to treat bilateral vocal fold immobility. It can widen the posterior glottis, which is important as an airway, and maintain the voice quality more effectively than vocal fold lateralization. In addition, it is expected to have a permanent effect without the possibility of relapse due to the breakage of traction threads or subsequent infection. When the opening of the glottis is insufficient after arytenoidectomy for posterior glottic stenosis, vocal fold lateralization should be additionally performed.